FIFA blocks France's black armband tribute as Deschamps returns

France manager Didier Deschamps returned to the FIFA World Cup base camp in Boston after attending his mother’s funeral, but FIFA rejected the French Football Federation’s request to permit black armbands for the team ahead of Tuesday’s round‑of‑32 clash with Sweden.

Deschamps was allowed to leave the Les Bleus’ base in Boston last week to be closer to his loved ones following his mother’s passing. He arrived back in the United States of America on Friday.

In the pre‑match press conference, Deschamps said it was obviously very difficult and that he had to leave for his own well‑being and that of the French team. He emphasized the personal nature of the decision.

France will face Sweden on Tuesday in the last‑32 stage of the tournament. The match marks the first knockout round for Les Bleus.

During Deschamps’ absence, his trusted right‑hand man oversaw France’s convincing group‑stage victory against Norway. The win kept the team’s momentum heading into the knockout phase.

The French Football Federation asked FIFA to allow players and staff to wear black armbands in honour of Deschamps’ late mother, but the request was declined. The report also carries the byline of Bastien Cheval.

Deschamps responded that the decision “doesn’t change anything” and that he already receives ample emotional support from his players and coaching staff, leaving the squad to focus on the upcoming tie with Sweden.